Judge reduces Menendez brothers’ sentences opening door to parole

After more than 35 years in prison for the 1989 murders of their parents, Lyle and Erik Menendez may soon be eligible for parole following a California judge's decision to reduce their sentences. On Tuesday, Judge Michael Jesic modified their punishment from life without parole to 50 years to life, making them immediately eligible to apply for parole.

The decision was made during an emotional court session in Los Angeles where both brothers accepted full responsibility for the killings. “They’ve done enough over the past 35 years to deserve a chance,” Judge Jesic remarked. A parole hearing is scheduled for next month.

The Menendez brothers were convicted of killing their parents, José and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills home using shotguns. The original trials in the 1990s captivated national attention, with prosecutors accusing the brothers of committing the murders to inherit the family’s wealth. Over the years, the brothers claimed the murders were in self-defense after enduring years of emotional and sexual abuse from their father.

Public interest in the case was reignited in recent years, fueled by celebrity advocacy—including Kim Kardashian—and the release of a popular Netflix miniseries. Legal efforts to reduce their sentences have gained momentum as perspectives on abuse and trauma have evolved.

In court, Lyle Menendez, now 57, appeared via video and admitted to shooting both parents, expressing deep remorse. Erik Menendez, 54, called his actions “cowardly” and accepted full responsibility, acknowledging he had lied and manipulated the situation in the aftermath of the crime.

Family members, including their cousin Anamaria Baralt and niece of their mother, Diane Hernandez, spoke in support of the brothers, describing them as rehabilitated individuals who have worked to help other inmates, including the terminally ill. "They deserve a second chance at life," said Baralt.

However, the resentencing was not without opposition. Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman argued against it, stating the brothers had given multiple, inconsistent stories about the killings and had not been fully transparent. Under California law, any decision by the parole board to release the Menendez brothers can still be reviewed, modified, or overturned by Governor Gavin Newsom.